Latest News
July 17, 2026
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Ocean Way Festival to Bring Major Two-Day Concert Event to Santa Monica Beach: Santa Monica Beach will host the inaugural Ocean Way Festival, a two-day beachfront music event set for September 26 and 27, 2026. Promoter Goldenvoice and city officials are organizing the festival between the Santa Monica Pier and Bay Street, marking the city's first large-scale concert on the local sand. Headliners include The Killers and Olivia Dean, with performances by Jack White, Khruangbin, and Sublime. The event draws inspiration from Santa Monica’s musical legacy and Goldenvoice’s historic ties to the area. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 17)
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Santa Clarita Councilmember Jason Gibbs Chosen for Metro Board Seat: Santa Clarita City Councilmember Jason Gibbs has been selected by his subregion to serve on the Metro board, succeeding Glendale Councilmember Ara Najarian. Gibbs will represent cities in North Los Angeles County and the San Fernando Valley, with his final appointment awaiting one remaining county committee approval. This transition marks a change in regional leadership on the Metro board. The appointment is significant for transportation oversight in these local communities. (Source: Santa Monica Next on Jul 17)
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Santa Monica Examines Ongoing Debate Over Urban Development and Public Spaces: Santa Monica is experiencing continued debate over the control and use of public spaces, with key decisions being made in City Council meetings and through zoning ordinances. Issues such as building heights, the allocation of neighborhood resources, and the broader impacts of development are at the center of these discussions. Residents and officials frequently engage in disputes over the balance between private interests and public benefits. The outcome of these debates will help shape the city's future landscape. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 17)
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Felony Suspect Arrested After Ocean Escape Attempt Off Will Rogers State Beach: A man wanted for felony warrants was apprehended Thursday morning after attempting to evade Los Angeles police by swimming in the ocean off Will Rogers State Beach. The incident began when officers approached him about camping on the beach near Pacific Coast Highway and Sunset Boulevard. He fled into the water, prompting a joint response from lifeguards and police, and was eventually brought to shore and taken into custody. Authorities later confirmed the man was wanted for vandalism and assault. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 17)
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Dogtown Skateboards Celebrates 50 Years With Art Exhibit in Santa Monica: Dogtown Skateboards, an influential brand rooted in the Venice and Santa Monica skate scene of the 1970s, will commemorate its 50th anniversary with an art exhibit and celebration on August 1 at the Adler Smith Gallery in Santa Monica. The event will showcase works by notable photographers and artists who documented skate culture, and will feature a DJ set by Tony Alva. The gathering highlights Dogtown's impact on skateboarding, art, and music over the past five decades. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 17)
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Santa Monica 12U Softball Team Qualifies for Nationals and Starts Travel Fundraiser: The Santa Monica 12U Girls Fastpitch Softball Team has secured a spot in the National Championships following a successful season. To ensure all team members can travel and participate, organizers have created a fundraiser to cover expenses such as tournament fees, transportation, lodging, meals, and equipment. As of Friday, the campaign had raised $3,625 out of a $4,500 target. The event presents local athletes with the opportunity to compete against top teams from across the country. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 17)
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Santa Monica 12U Softball Team Earns Nationals Berth, Starts Travel Fundraiser: The Santa Monica 12U Girls Fastpitch Softball Team has advanced to the National Championships after a season of dedicated play. To support participation from all team members, organizers have launched a fundraiser aimed at covering travel expenses such as tournament fees, lodging, and equipment. As of Friday, the campaign had collected $3,625 out of a $4,500 goal. Team leaders highlight the opportunity for the athletes to compete nationally and stress the importance of making the trip possible for everyone involved. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 17)
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Community Reflections on the Pandemic and Technology at Kool Happenings Event: A recent event in Santa Monica explored how the pandemic altered daily life and the fabric of community, prompting introspection about shared experiences and loss of normal routines. The gathering, part of the 'Kool Happenings' series, featured discussions highlighting the ways technology both connects and isolates individuals during challenging times. Attendees engaged with themes of change and adaptation, emphasizing the evolving role of tech. The event aimed to foster understanding and resilience within the local community. (Source: Santa Monica Next on Jul 17)
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Review of 'Gail Daughtry and the Celebrity Sex Pass' Highlights Satirical Approach: A recent review examines the comedy film 'Gail Daughtry and the Celebrity Sex Pass,' released July 10 and rated R. The film's opening scenes initially feel disjointed, with performances that seem exaggerated and lacking cohesion. However, as the story progresses, the director’s satirical, sketch-comedy style becomes apparent, offering humor that lampoons Hollywood culture and celebrity status. Audience members may find enjoyment once they adjust to the film's unique tone. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 17)
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Community Engagement Encouraged Amid National and Local Challenges: Columnist Charles Andrews addresses recent challenges facing both the Santa Monica area and the nation, urging residents to become more actively involved in civic life. He emphasizes that disengagement and apathy only contribute to further decline, and highlights the importance of personal participation in the democratic process. The column encourages readers to work collectively to address pressing issues rather than rely solely on digital forms of advocacy. The message closes with a call to collaborative action. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 17)
July 16, 2026
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Venice Trader Joe’s Proposal Progresses After Neighborhood Committee Vote: Plans for a new Trader Joe’s grocery store in Venice moved ahead after the Land Use & Planning Committee of the Venice Neighborhood Council endorsed the project. The store, proposed at 620 S. Lincoln Boulevard at the site of the former Fox Venice Theater, would occupy about 13,000 square feet and include beer, wine, and liquor sales. The historic theater, closed after years as a swap meet, still awaits city approval and construction before the store could open. This marks the furthest the proposal has advanced after previous setbacks. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 16)
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Los Angeles Brewsology Festival to Feature 150 Beers at California Science Center: The 2026 Los Angeles Brewsology Festival is set to take place at the California Science Center on Saturday, August 1. Attendees can sample more than 150 beers from over 50 breweries while exploring museum exhibits during evening hours. Early admission provides access to specialty beers, with general admission available later in the evening. Organized by Brewsology, the event aims to offer a unique combination of craft beer tasting and museum exploration. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 16)
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Jeni's Reintroduces 'Ted Lasso' Flavor and Offers National Ice Cream Day Treats: Jeni’s Splendid Ice Creams is bringing back its 'Biscuits with the Boss' flavor, inspired by the TV show Ted Lasso, as part of its new summer lineup in Los Angeles. The ice cream shop is also launching four limited-edition seasonal flavors, including options like Campfire S’mores and Strawberry Pretzel Pie. On National Ice Cream Day, July 19, customers who buy a scoop will receive a complimentary topping of house-made fudge or caramel sauce. The new flavors aim to evoke classic summer desserts and nostalgic treats. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 16)
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Santa Monica Pier Restaurant Proposal Delayed Due to Lease Negotiation Issues: Efforts to open a new restaurant on the Santa Monica Pier have halted following unsuccessful lease negotiations between city officials and the prospective operators. Key sticking points reportedly include mandatory labor peace and employee retention provisions that the city considers essential. With neither side yielding on these conditions, plans for the establishment are on hold. The future of the proposed restaurant remains uncertain at this time. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 16)
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Plans for New Santa Monica Pier Restaurant Delayed Due to Lease Dispute: Efforts to open a new restaurant on the Santa Monica Pier have stalled after lease negotiations between the prospective operator and the city collapsed. The primary points of contention involve requirements for labor peace and employee retention, which city officials maintain are essential and not subject to change. As a result, progress on the proposed dining establishment is on hold. The future of the project remains uncertain following the halted talks. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 16)
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Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams Reintroduces 'Ted Lasso' Flavor for Summer Menu: Jeni's Splendid Ice Creams has brought back its popular 'Biscuits with the Boss' flavor and released three other limited-edition offerings at Los Angeles-area locations, as part of its mid-summer menu. The new lineup emphasizes nostalgic and classic summer desserts, featuring Campfire S'mores, Strawberry Pretzel Pie, and Hibiscus Chilli Punch. On National Ice Cream Day, July 19, customers purchasing a scoop will receive a complimentary pour of fudge or caramel sauce. These summer treats are available for a limited time. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 16)
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LA Brewsology Festival to Feature Over 150 Beers at California Science Center: The Los Angeles Brewsology Festival returns to the California Science Center on Saturday, August 1, 2026. Attendees will have the opportunity to sample more than 150 beers from over 50 breweries while exploring the Science Center's exhibits. The event runs from 8 to 11 p.m., with an early admission option at 7 p.m. providing access to exclusive brews. Tickets must be purchased in advance, as they will not be sold at the door. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 16)
July 15, 2026
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Los Angeles Monitors Cyclospora Amid Nationwide Surge, No Local Outbreak Reported: Public health officials in Los Angeles County are monitoring a national surge in cyclosporiasis, a foodborne illness caused by the Cyclospora parasite. While the outbreak has led to a dramatic increase in cases across 34 states, no locally linked incidents have been identified in Los Angeles County or California. State data show that California has seen a decline in cases compared to previous years. Residents are advised to stay informed and maintain healthy food practices. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 15)
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Extreme Heat Triggers Weather Warning Across Los Angeles County: The National Weather Service has issued an extreme heat warning for much of Los Angeles County as temperatures rise above 100 degrees this week. The alert, which took effect Tuesday morning and runs through Thursday evening, follows forecasts of elevated humidity and unusually warm overnight conditions. Residents in coastal and Westside areas will also feel significant humidity even if daytime temperatures are slightly lower. Local agencies are urging people to stay cool and check on vulnerable community members. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 15)
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Santa Monica College Planetarium to Host Astronomy Shows in August: Santa Monica College Planetarium will host a series of live, in-person astronomy shows on Friday evenings throughout August, complemented by a special Sunday matinee for families on August 16. The program lineup features a range of topics, including Mars Rover Curiosity, major observatories, eclipses, phases of the Moon, and solar phenomena. Each event lasts approximately 40 minutes and is suitable for all ages. The series seeks to engage the public in astronomy education. (Source: Santa Monica Next on Jul 15)
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Santa Monica Council Advances Ballot Measures and Civic Auditorium Negotiations: The Santa Monica City Council has approved the inclusion of school funding and tenant protection measures on the upcoming November ballot. Council members also authorized staff to enter negotiations with Golden Voice regarding a potential agreement for the Civic Auditorium. Additionally, emergency rules were adopted for autonomous vehicle fleet operations. The discussion of SB 79 was postponed, with other matters addressed during the extensive meeting. (Source: Santa Monica Next on Jul 15)
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Los Angeles Officials Request $15.7 Billion in Federal Wildfire Relief Funding: Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and County Supervisor Kathryn Barger have formally asked Congress to allocate $15.7 billion in disaster relief for victims of the Eaton and Palisades wildfires that occurred in January 2025. Their request comes after a federal supplemental funding package was proposed without specific provisions for these California wildfires. The funds would support rebuilding infrastructure and community resources. The city's leaders emphasized the critical need for this aid to assist ongoing recovery. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 15)
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Six Arrested for Lobster Poaching Following Sting at Santa Monica Pier: Six individuals were apprehended at Santa Monica Pier for allegedly poaching lobsters out of season, following a coordinated sting by California wildlife officers. With the help of specially trained dogs, authorities discovered lobsters hidden in bags, vehicles, and a stroller. A total of 34 lobsters, including several females bearing eggs, were returned to the ocean. Officials stress that removing egg-bearing females can harm local fishery populations and impact legal anglers. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 15)
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Six Arrested for Lobster Poaching in Santa Monica Pier Enforcement Operation: California wildlife officers arrested six individuals at the Santa Monica Pier for poaching lobsters months after the legal season had ended. With support from trained canines, officers discovered 34 hidden lobsters in various containers, including vehicles and even a stroller. The lobsters, among them several egg-bearing females, were returned alive to the ocean to protect the species. Suspects face charges including out-of-season harvest and possession of undersized lobsters. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 15)
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‘Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die’ Anti-AI Comedy Screening Set for Nuart Theatre: The Nuart Theatre in West Los Angeles will host a special screening of the sci-fi comedy 'Good Luck, Have Fun, Don’t Die' on July 16, coinciding with AI Appreciation Day. The event features a live appearance by director Gore Verbinski and screenwriter Matthew Robinson, who will participate in a panel discussion about the film's satirical take on an AI-created apocalypse. The story follows a time traveler trying repeatedly to stop an AI takeover with help from reluctant diner patrons. The film's ensemble cast includes Haley Lu Richardson and Michael Peña. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 15)
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Los Angeles Officials Seek $15.7 Billion in Federal Aid for Wildfire Recovery: Los Angeles Mayor Karen Bass and County Supervisor Kathryn Barger have formally requested Congress to allocate $15.7 billion in disaster relief to support recovery from the January 2025 Eaton and Palisades wildfires. The appeal was made in response to a recent $87.6 billion federal supplemental funding proposal that did not include aid for these Southern California disasters. City and county leaders are asking for congressional action to help restore damaged infrastructure and public facilities. The outcome now depends on the appropriations process in Washington. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 15)
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Mar Vista Committee Plans Discussion on Homelessness and Safety on Tuller Avenue: The Mar Vista Community Council’s Public Health and Safety and Homelessness Committee will hold a meeting on Wednesday evening to address concerns regarding homelessness and public safety on Tuller Avenue. The agenda includes a proposed policy to improve coordination among neighborhood councils, council offices, and city departments for handling issues that cross jurisdictional lines. The meeting will take place at Windward School. The committee may take action on the proposed policy during the session. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 15)
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Residents Report Public Indecency Incident in Venice Residential Alley: A Venice resident encountered two individuals engaging in lewd behavior in a residential alley late Tuesday morning. Upon being discovered, the pair quickly fled, but one later returned and was seen drinking alcohol at the scene for nearly an hour. City officials have been notified about this incident, which has heightened concerns among locals about ongoing public safety and quality-of-life issues related to homelessness in the Venice area. The specific location was withheld for privacy reasons. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 15)
July 14, 2026
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Santa Monica Police Arrest Driver Linked to Whittier Armed Robbery After Pursuit: Santa Monica police, using assistance from specialized units, located and stopped a vehicle suspected in a recent armed robbery in Whittier. The pursuit ended near Ocean Park Boulevard and Main Street, where officers detained the driver, George Jeremiah Romero, without incident. A suspected firearm magazine was found inside the vehicle. Whittier police later arrived to take custody of both the suspect and the vehicle as their investigation continues. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 14)
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Santa Monica Police Arrest Driver in Vehicle Linked to Whittier Armed Robbery: Santa Monica police utilized specialized resources to locate and stop a vehicle connected to an armed robbery in Whittier on June 22. Officers coordinated with the department’s SMART Center and used a K9 team to track the car near Pico Boulevard and Main Street. The driver, identified as George Jeremiah Romero, was arrested without incident after officers conducted a high-risk traffic stop. Whittier police later took custody of both the suspect and the vehicle as part of their investigation. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 14)
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Increase in Encampments Reported at Hampton and Rose in Venice: Residents in Venice have reported a significant rise in tents and street encampments near the intersection of Rose Avenue and Hampton Drive, close to the sites of the former Rose Cafe and Google facility. Efforts to relocate unhoused individuals appear to be facing setbacks, with some residents concerned about the enforcement of local ordinances designed to limit encampments in certain areas. Questions have also been raised about the lack of constant security near these properties. The situation underscores ongoing challenges in addressing homelessness in this part of Los Angeles. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 14)
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Temescal Gateway Park Set to Reopen After Extensive Fire Recovery Efforts: Temescal Gateway Park in the Santa Monica Mountains will reopen following 18 months of recovery from damage caused by the Palisades Fire. While the main Temescal Canyon Trail remains closed indefinitely due to lingering hazards, the newly rebuilt Rivas Trail and Sunset Trail will offer visitors access to scenic overlooks, Will Rogers State Historic Park, and Temescal Ridge Trail. Key picnic areas have also been restored, and extensive work was done to remove hazardous trees and repair visitor facilities. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 14)
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Protected Bikeways Completed at 26th Street and Colorado Avenue in Santa Monica: The Broadway Safety Project in Santa Monica, aimed at improving road conditions and adding protected bikeways between Ocean Avenue and 26th Street, is nearing completion. New protected lanes along 26th Street and Colorado Avenue offer safer options for cyclists traveling through the city’s east-west corridor. City officials hope these bikeways will improve both bicycle safety and traffic flow in the area. This marks a significant upgrade in local cycling infrastructure. (Source: Santa Monica Next on Jul 14)
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Temescal Gateway Park to Reopen Following Extensive Fire Recovery Efforts: Temescal Gateway Park in the Santa Monica Mountains will reopen Friday morning after being closed for over a year due to fire damage from the Palisades Fire. Visitors can access the newly rebuilt Rivas Trail, offering scenic views and a link to Will Rogers State Historic Park, as well as the Sunset Trail. However, the Temescal Canyon Trail to the waterfall remains off-limits for safety reasons. Restoration efforts included clearing damaged trees and repairing trails and facilities to ensure public safety. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 14)
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Caltrans Plans Lane Closures on Pacific Coast Highway and Topanga Canyon Boulevard: Caltrans will enforce daytime and overnight lane closures along stretches of Pacific Coast Highway and Topanga Canyon Boulevard from July 13 to 19 as part of recovery efforts following the Palisades Fire. Travelers in the coastal Westside area should anticipate delays and increased traffic fines within construction zones. Work will include maintenance, paving, and drainage repairs, with some speed limits temporarily reduced. Closures and decreased speeds will impact both weekday and late-night commutes through the affected corridors. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 14)
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Santa Monica Pier Restaurant Opening Stalled by Lease Dispute: A planned restaurant and live music venue, California Roadhouse, remains unopened at the Santa Monica Pier due to ongoing disagreements over labor-related terms in the city's lease proposal. The restaurant’s founder reports that the business is prepared to invest and hire, but negotiations have not resolved the issue. This vacancy continues as Santa Monica prioritizes local economic recovery and revitalization of the pier. Ongoing delays have prevented the creation of dozens of new jobs at this prominent location. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 14)
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Santa Monica Resident Reflects on Career Journey and Launches Travel Business: After nearly three decades in Santa Monica, a local resident shares experiences from various professional roles including public affairs, philanthropy, manufacturing, journalism, and most recently, travel. Transitioning to a career as a travel agent, the resident has run a travel advisory business for over a year and recently earned a certification specializing in Hawaiian destinations. The story highlights the evolution of his work and latest business endeavor. The focus is on personal growth and entrepreneurship. (Source: Santa Monica Next on Jul 14)
July 13, 2026
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Santa Monica Council Reviews Major Tourism and Downtown Revitalization Budgets: The Santa Monica City Council is set to review over $16 million in proposed budgets for tourism promotion and downtown management at its Tuesday meeting. Among the items is approval of the Santa Monica Tourism Marketing District's work plan, funded by hotel assessments and aimed at boosting overnight stays and visitor spending. The council will also consider an agreement for Downtown Santa Monica Inc. to continue hosting events at a city-owned parking lot. Decisions made will impact local tourism strategies and downtown activities. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 13)
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Santa Monica Council to Review $16 Million Tourism and Downtown Plans: The Santa Monica City Council will consider budgets exceeding $16 million for tourism marketing and downtown district management at its upcoming Tuesday meeting. Included in the agenda is a nearly $6.9 million spending plan for the Tourism Marketing District, funded by hotel assessments, which outlines marketing and visitor engagement initiatives. Council members will also address a new agreement allowing Downtown Santa Monica Inc. to continue hosting community events at a city-owned parking lot. These decisions could shape local tourism and downtown activity for the coming year. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 13)
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Palisades Riviera Mediterranean Home Near Will Rogers Park Listed for $13 Million: A Mediterranean-style estate in the Palisades Riviera is now on the market for nearly $13 million. The 6,732-square-foot residence, featuring five bedrooms and seven bathrooms, is located on a 16,000-square-foot lot overlooking Will Rogers State Park. Notably, the property is among the few on Romany Drive to withstand recent wildfires in the area. The home includes upscale amenities such as vaulted ceilings, a chef’s kitchen, formal dining room, and four bedroom suites on the upper floor. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 13)
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21st Century Road to Housing Act Becomes Law Without Presidential Signature: The 21st Century Road to Housing Act, a bipartisan measure aimed at addressing the country’s housing affordability problems, was enacted after President Donald Trump allowed the bill to become law by neither signing nor vetoing it. This legislation is considered the most significant federal housing overhaul in more than 30 years. It was crafted by a coalition of lawmakers from both parties and addresses concerns over high mortgage rates and soaring home prices. The law takes effect via the constitutional process after a 10-day period. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 13)
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Santa Monica Affordable Housing Program Spurs Two New Mid-Rise Developments: Cypress Equity Investments is advancing plans for two eight-story, mixed-use buildings near Douglas Park in Santa Monica, utilizing the city's off-site affordable housing pilot program. These projects will bring a combined total of 320 residential units and new retail space to the Wilshire Boulevard corridor. The first site, at 2025 Wilshire Boulevard, is set to replace existing commercial businesses with 150 apartments and an underground parking facility. The initiative aims to address the city's need for more housing options. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 13)
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Mar Vista Home Invasion Targets Rapper, $200,000 in Valuables Stolen: Three armed intruders broke into the Mar Vista residence of rapper Jamari Spencer, known artistically as Bleood, early Friday morning. The suspects reportedly stole approximately $200,000 worth of clothing, watches, and electronics before fleeing through a back alley near Victoria Avenue. Los Angeles police confirmed that Spencer was inside recording music during the incident and no injuries were reported. Authorities are continuing their investigation into the home invasion. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 13)
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Venice Council Committee Reviews Cabrillo Avenue Housing Remodel Proposals: The Venice Neighborhood Council’s Land Use and Planning Committee will review remodeling plans for two adjacent Cabrillo Avenue properties to increase housing availability while keeping the neighborhood’s character intact. Both projects, located at 1137 and 1139 Cabrillo Ave., aim to renovate existing homes, potentially creating additional residential units. These proposals require Coastal Development Permits and further hearings before city planning authorities. The committee's decision could help address local housing needs. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 13)
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Mediterranean Estate Overlooking Will Rogers Park Listed for $12.995 Million: A Mediterranean-style estate in the Palisades Riviera neighborhood near Will Rogers State Park has been listed for $12.995 million. The gated property spans 6,732 square feet on a 16,000-square-foot lot and features five bedrooms and seven bathrooms. Standout amenities include a chef’s kitchen, formal dining area, wine storage, and a three-car garage. The home is among the few properties in the area that remained after recent wildfires. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 13)
July 12, 2026
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Motorist Killed During Police Pursuit Crash in South Los Angeles: A fatal collision occurred in South Los Angeles when a Tesla driver, attempting to elude police, crashed into a Mercedes-Benz at the intersection of Slauson Avenue and Denker Avenue. The incident took place around 8:50 p.m. on May 23 after officers tried unsuccessfully to stop the Tesla for reckless driving. The driver fled the scene on foot but was quickly apprehended by authorities. The Los Angeles Police Department is continuing to investigate the crash. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 12)
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California Restructures School Governance With New Education Commissioner Role: Governor Gavin Newsom has signed a bill that significantly restructures how California oversees its K-12 schools and higher education. The legislation introduces an appointed Education Commissioner to lead the state Department of Education and enhances the authority of the elected State Superintendent, including granting voting powers on key boards. Additionally, the State Board of Education will now include two more legislative appointees. The changes are intended to resolve longstanding divisions in educational policy and management across the state. (Source: Santa Monica Mirror on Jul 12)
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California Governor Signs Education Governance Reform Bill Into Law: Governor Gavin Newsom has approved a significant restructuring of California's school governance by signing Assembly Bill 181. The new law establishes an appointed Education Commissioner to oversee the Department of Education and extends the elected State Superintendent's influence across both K-12 and higher education. The State Superintendent will now hold a voting seat on the State Board of Education and on major higher education boards. This measure is designed to address longstanding issues between educational policy-setting and implementation. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 12)
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Driver Arrested After Fatal Crash While Fleeing Police in South Los Angeles: A motorist fleeing police in a Tesla caused a deadly collision in South Los Angeles after striking a Mercedes-Benz. The pursuit began when officers observed reckless driving, but they soon lost sight of the vehicle due to its high speed. The Tesla was later seen hitting a bicyclist, who left the scene, before it was involved in the fatal crash on Slauson Avenue at Denker Avenue. The driver attempted to escape on foot but was quickly apprehended by police. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 12)
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Santa Monica Conservancy Hosts July Walking Tours Exploring Local History: The Santa Monica Conservancy will hold two walking tours in July highlighting the area's architectural and cultural heritage. The first tour, scheduled for July 11, will focus on the history of Ocean Park’s commercial district, with insights from local historians. On July 18, a second tour will guide participants through six blocks of downtown Santa Monica, showcasing significant sites linked to notable figures and local landmarks. Both events emphasize the city’s evolving neighborhoods and artistic legacy. (Source: Yo! Venice! on Jul 12)